Only one game in the Sunday League beat the big freeze, as Railway took the opportunity to make up ground on the leaders.

Railway won a closely-fought Division One contest against a competitive Bruce A side at Windmill Street but the visiting side should take credit as they never stopped running and competed for every ball.

Right-back Craig Templeton epitomised their spirit with some crunching challenges right up to the end which left the View players knowing they’d been in a game but it was Railway’s ability in front of goal that proved crucial.

Elliot Spencer gave the visitors an early lead as they attacked from the first whistle but Railway equalised through the impressive Mike Harrison.

Chances were limited in open play and on a tricky surface, with players struggling to keep upright, free kicks were always a possibility.

Ten minutes before half-time Bruce conceded 25 yards from goal. Sam Houghton’s shot was brilliantly saved by Alex Hibbert but he could only parry the ball to centre-half Andy Mitchell, who fired home from four yards.

The second half was equally tight but Ian Armitt brought on Dave Barrett to break up play and disrupt Bruce in the middle of the pitch.

It worked and with half an hour remaining Railway scored a third, Liam Fisher getting on the end of an Oli Brazier free kick.

The result keeps Railway View second, three points behind Broken Cross but with a game in hand and a vastly superior goal difference.